Hi Lizzie, tell us a bit about you. How old are your children and what happens with your kids when you are at work?
Gallerist & Exhibition Curator. Director, Brocket Gallery London & Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair. I have a daughter, Daphne, 9 weeks old
1. One word to describe how being a WoMo makes you feel?
Guilty (currently)
Also ‘strong’ if a better one. Simply because of the mental, physical, personal & professional challenges you have to overcome.
2. What’s the funniest experience you have had juggling kids and work?
She farted all the way through a conference call last week which was fairly amusing
3. What is the one piece of advice you could offer another WoMo?
As a rookie I’ve so far discovered...
An hour’s task takes 3 with a newborn. So if you have the time to do something, do it then and there- don’t let the work build up.
4. What’s the least amount of sleep you’ve gone to work on and how did you cope?
1.5 hours. My mother in laws chocolate brownies
5. What have you learned about yourself as a WoMo?
Balance, in my whole outlook, not just in terms of juggling work and baby.
Just how isolating it can be. However much time I spend with other new mothers or people wanting to help or discuss why I’m still working, some people don’t understand why you need to keep working and how much time is sacrificed as a business owner - you can’t just stop completely, it’s not that you don’t want to.
6. If you had a working mother’s anthem or mantra, what would it be?
I don’t think I’m there yet but will get back to you. I’m still hour by hour.
But a good stable of songs to sing to the babe while getting on with work. Daphne’s been enjoying my own renditions of Dolly Parton, The Modern Lovers & numbers from The Little Mermaid Disney film while I’m typing away ... or at least I’m enjoying them.
7. What is your guilty pleasure to combat WoMo guilt the best?
Online shopping while breastfeeding ... we both win!
8. Would you rather be dealing with a tantrum or presenting in a board meeting?
Tantrum. At least you know whatever the outcome, it is completely worth it.
9. If you asked your child what your job is, what would they say?
N/a
10. What’s the one thing you wish you’d known before you became a WoMo?
Well I wish I’d learned to nap. I’m not a daytime napper which seems to be the survival tip for all new mums. Sadly nap time for the baby is currently work time for me as I’m finishing a big project.
11. To date, what has been your best WoMo achievement?
My daughter
12. What do you want to teach your kids about working mothers?
That it’s completely normal. I grew up in a household where my mum was director of a huge charity, so I’ve experience (now) from both mother and child sides. I recognise the drive and determination but understand the balance needed.